10 / 10
"Naughty dog have created another master piece!"
Let's start with the edition first!
Since the release of the Uncharted Series, there was much debate as to what Naughty Dog had in store for their next series of games. The studio firmly expressed the need for more adult games. When we say adult games, we don't mean typical sex and and violence as such but more to the point of placing the player in more human and mature situations, that may require empathy or otherwise. Early concepts of the game, indicated that this would most certainly fit the bill for zombie/horror genre. But what will make this one different? How can the developers create a new concept for a popular theme for a game? The answer evolves around upgrading every stereotypical view of a zombie game, from enemies, story to environments and concepts etc. I admit, it has taken me awhile to start this review because I want to make sure that what I write is honest and in-depth. Not only this but I wanted to give you guys a chance to play and understand the game rather than me giving away spoilers, therefore ruining your experience.
So let's get started with the Ellie edition!
9.9 / 10 Edition Rating...
When you take first looks at the edition, you may think it's a tad small in terms of what I paid for
it. But don't be disappointed... It's a great illusion, but as the image shows (above) it has all been carefully packaged and designed through-out. Upon removing the packaging, you will feel a rough canvas type of fabric, after more examination; the stitching is of a good quality which keeps up the theme of this being a "Survival pack." Depending on which of the two editions you pre-ordered, your favourite character appears on the front of the canvas cover. Judging by how this has been printed I would say that the studio have used either Silk Screen techniques or digital printing. Looking through the pockets, you will find: a screen print effect poster, The Last of us mini comic book, art-book, Ellie dual shock wireless controller skin, the blue ray game disc, little planet avatar of Ellie, sights and sounds pack, game soundtrack, two PSN avatars and the survival pack containing: customisable multiplayer items, in game currency, bonus XP, melee attack booster and bonus Joel and Ellie character skins.
The paper for the poster is smooth to the touch and seems sturdy. However; I would like to see more of Ellie's face rather than taking away her facial features. Also, it would have been great for the developers to hand sign the poster, yet I understand that time requires them to be elsewhere. The mini comic book is small, but the colour and paper are a smooth, great quality. After reading it, I am beginning to understand why Ellie is so independent and not very trusting towards Joel and other people. On-top of the comic book, you will find a Naughty Dog sticker which has been beautifully designed and protected. The dual shock controller sticker has some very nice tones and features, beautifully illustrating Ellie's face. It would have been nice if the controller cover was in colour but I understand if this would increase cost in production. Last but not least comes the art-book. The cover is stunning, hardback with 72 glossy pages. To achieve the glossy pages, the printers would apply china clay to the mixture which gives the impressive appearance and touch of a high standard artbook. Inside, you will find images illustrating enemies, Ellie's bow, character designs and environmental paintings. In my opinion, this edition is worth your investment! Let's move on to the game ...
The enemies have had a make over, showing a more natural yet devastating form of decay/ evolvement. To me, this adds beauty to a shocking image.
The first few scenes feature you playing as Joel's daughter, Sarah. A canny teenager with a good heart and abit of attitude. On what seemed to be a normal evening for father and daughter, she wakes up only to realise that she heard something strange outside, with Joel was no where to be seen. After several events including an attempt to escape town, they are both stopped by a lone soldier. Realising the immediate danger, Joel attempts to dodge the soldiers fire while placing himself in harms way to protect his daughter. Moments pass, and we soon realise that she was shot. The voice acting and interaction between the two characters was very touching yet heart-breaking. Therefore I believe this is one of the best examples of emotion for a long while. As the years passed... we see a more tortured and angry Joel. Experienced gamers will notice that Joel still keeps his watch that Sarah gave him the night before she died.
Soon you meet a strong, defensive and highly independent girl named Ellie who is seeking the Fireflies (a rebel faction who are trying to find the cure to the outbreak.) Earlier, gameplay with Ellie and Joel show the mistrust and suspicion between the two individuals. When Joel discovers that Ellie is infected, his mistrust of her increases dramatically and almost loses his temper. There were a few occasions where Ellie attempts to console Joel and his past, only to have Joel aggressively reject her. While losing his temper, he makes it very clear to Ellie that she will never be a daughter to him and that she is nothing more than a package. Towards the end of the game, we see the pair form a father and daughter bond, with Joel intending on them returning "home" together and becoming very protected over her safety. The pair have come along way, especially Ellie. Take for example the scene where she was being "assaulted" by David. The anger and desperation she showed while confronting him, show courage and empathy. Personally, I admire Ellie's character, showing so much strength while realising that she is only 15 years old and took many adult responsibilities such as caring for Joel while he was critically injured etc.
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My favourite areas of the game are as follows: the giraffe scene where Ellie strokes a giraffe's neck under the guidance of Joel situated in a area of paradise, relations between characters, the rich, vastly detailed and varied environments, the interaction and voice acting, playing and hunting as Ellie was a special edition to gameplay and story, storyline, the variety of enemies, the crafting system and inventory system where you can see all around you and know where enemies are. In-fact, I have no complaints.... every area was astounding and speechless to observe.
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